They say the only constant in life is change. Right now, I’m getting a real lesson in what that means.

Earlier this month, I “consciously uncoupled” from daily newspapers after more than 25 years and joined the staff at Door & Window Market magazine. Within a week, I went from worrying about whatever it is that Kim Kardashian does to wondering what the EPA will do to update its Energy Star specifications.

Talk about change.

Trey Barrineau

It’s been a dizzying career transformation so far, but it’s also been deeply rewarding on a lot of levels.

First of all, I’ve been warmly welcomed by my new colleagues at Key Communications. It’s obviously a much smaller operation than USA Today, where I’d spent the prior 14 years, but that’s what’s so great about it. The hard-working people here clearly love what they do, and they really seem to like each other. That’s rare.

Secondly, the people in the door and window industry that I’ve met so far have been terrific. Helpful, friendly and passionate about their profession.

And that profession is vitally important.

I know — because my father is part of it.

Bill Barrineau has been involved in the glass business in the Carolinas for nearly 50 years, and as he approaches his 80th birthday, he’s still going strong as the senior estimator for Charlotte Glass Contractors. So the door and window industry that I now cover helped feed me, kept a roof over my head, put me through college and gave me walking-around money when I needed it.

Just like it does for millions of people across this country and around the world.

Unlike the Kim Kardashians of the world, door and window manufacturers and suppliers create jobs. They solve challenging technical problems. They give customers practical products that they want and need.

And the things they build can be beautiful to behold.

So thanks, everyone, for my warm welcome to the fenestration industry (and yes, I had to look up what “fenestration” means). I’m so excited about this great new opportunity, and I look forward to learning and growing with all of you.

Editor’s note: Tara Taffera, former editor, continues in her role of editorial director and publisher. Her past blog posts may still be found here.